I was just showing the Knipex Cobra and Plier Wrench to a friend at work. You’re exactly right, the shape that Knipex puts into the handle is nearly perfect. Even the spot on the handle where my ring finger goes to open the jaws when holding it is perfectly positioned. Subtle things like that are what set the Knipex apart from the competition.
Knipex doesn't have to answer to share holders because they're still family owned, and they have a mind set of "how can we make this better" over "how can we make this cheaper". In a factory tour of their main location in Wuppertal, one of the things said there was that if you have ideas, just say them, even if they're bad. The price is still high, but they use good quality materials and a lot of skilled labour is involved
Knipex is one of those tools that is priced at a point where it just isn't worth compromising on a lower cost copy, IMO. For a pro, they are inexpensive, for a homeowner, they are worth the investment. Pride of ownership and knowing it is a quality product with a great reputation is worth the "premium" price. Plus they innovate versus copy and are good at not only staying in their lane, but defining it.
Knipex is overrated. I’ve been doing plumbing for almost 30 yrs. and there are plenty of pliers that get the job done. I sold my Knipex off on EBay because I couldn’t look at those ugly red and blue handles in my tool bag. Knipex makes ugly looking tools
The craftsman look identical to an Irwin pair I have, they also have the "speed" function. I have several sized of the knipex, both plier and cobra. I am a plumber and use them multiple times a day, 5 days a week. Nothing comes close to the build quality of the knipex. The imitations that are half the price will serve people well if you use them 6 times a year, that's for sure. But if you can afford them, there is no substitute for the knipex.
I also noticed that the speed function wasn't mentioned in the video, despite the craftsman looking like it has it. I like the knowledge best too. But I really like the Lenox version for plumbing (in an institutional setting). The Lenox has a huge jaw opening for its size, which means it will fit on more closet spuds.
You just keep making me feel better and better at not picking up more of those clearance items 😂 I had to keep telling myself… you don’t need anymore sockets, you don’t need anymore sockets
After spending time me on the Snap On truck, the V series clearance feels like hitting the lottery. But then reality sets in, the luster wears off and the disappointment rises. There are a ton of clearance deals practically giving away the tools but I’ve started asking myself “would I buy this tool at a garage sale? And the answer is always “no.”
@ there is always the question in my mind, “why are these on clearance”. Sometimes it’s poor marketing or the store just had too many they didn’t sell, but it’s usually because no one wants them.
@@lastbesttoolat 40% off I grabbed a few sets of icon sockets. Good to have so I don’t carry my snap ons w me and lose them. Each set was the price if I replaced one socket off the truck. I got a couple extra sets of semi deep for $22. They are the ones I usuallly grab first. Wish they had them in 1/4 too
@@MORGANSMaintenance they were too expensive, no availability and no marketing. The majority of the line is good quality. If you like tekton, gear wrench, icon, or any of the mid tier brands you will like them. Not sure why @lastbesttool is expecting snap-on quality for mid tier brands. Even I don't expect snap-on quality from snap-on. At work we buy(contracted) multiple snap-on sets every year. We are talking million dollar contracts. The quality doesn't reflect the price. The price is so cheap of the V, does it really matter? Some people are paying even lower prices 😂.
@@MORGANSMaintenanceI still think I might pick up the V Series 1/2” socket set. For 20 bucks it’s good to have bigger size sockets like 1-1/16”, 1-1/4” etc. I can’t even buy one socket of those sizes for 20 bucks lol
The icons have been great and have proven their worth in my work. They’re a solid go to if I need a big size without having to grab the 20lbs bag of wrenches. I’d recommend them to anyone on the fence thinking about trying these wrenches.
The Knipex have gone through a few design iterations... IIRC, the early versions were heavier. I have 2 pair of the 250mm... exceedingly useful/versatile at times! Then recently got a third pair for a song, and dedicated them to the car trunk emergency bag. Even those lowly Craftsman's would fill the emergency bag roll well... plus no big tears should they ever 'loose' you. :)
I have them and have only used them a couple times in the last 10 years. I never got rid of them because I did feel like they had a use. I don’t think I have used them since I got the parrot style ones
I can feel it too with my knipex - every pair I have is a zero-regret purchase if you can afford the knipex, they're definitely worth it ... if you can't afford them, wait and save up until you can - it's worth saving for - future you will thank you
Hello again, Doc Happy Tuesday to you and your family. I have a pair of knipex Alligator pliers. I have found them to be awkward to use. Once you get them where you need them it's game on! The gripping of pliers is great. Again thank you 👌
Got knipex and i use it for plumbing, only issue i have is adjustability. When i use cobras i adjust once and generally it fits the fastener, the margin is much higher compared to plier wrench, when i use them i generaly have to adjust 2-3 times to find perfect spot. Other than that its great. I kind od hope they fix it in future iterations, maybe add more teeth:)
I don't really get what aiding more teeth would do. The movement in the head when adjusted is a smaller margin than the Cobras, since the jaws move parallel. That also means that the jaws don't close "around" the piece that you want to grab and rely on surface to surface contact rather than the profile catching. But there is still enough play that makes up for one or two teeth. It's a more precise tool that also needs to be adjusted more precisely. I don't think adding more teeth would help.
Go get the kleins. They have an extended button to make the adjustment want easier. I have the icons, and doing DIY plumbing can be a nightmare with them when you're under a sink and only have 1 hand on them. The problem is klein didn't bring the extended button to the smaller ones.
Maybe, i dont really know but plier wrench tend to have a Perfect spot on a fastener. It grabs tight and handles arent spread too wide. Just one click tighter and it still grabs but handles are too much spread apart and its not comfortable. Maybe adding few more teeth would add some more place for error, or maybe its just geometry od the tool? Idk, once you set it right its a great tool
That is because the pliers wrench has much more leverage. So when you close them the corbas close faster for every movement of the handles. So it's a compromise between clamping force and adjustability.
The V-series clearance is worth a serious look. I purchased both the SAE and Metric 8-Piece Sets of Ratcheting Wrenches for $30 (usually $85). 70 teeth, reversible, 5 degree arc, reasonable backdrag,... VERY pleased with my purchase.
Its not a clearance. Craftsman have stated that it's a holiday sale promotion for this year. Theory is to compete with Harbor Freight for this holiday season.
I just picked up the same metric 8 piece. Solid set that I keep in the car emergency tool kit. They’re very similar to MAC and Facom versions. They also have the ratchets on sale, unfortunately not the best in terms of back drag and head shape.
Cant go wrong with either the icon or knipex pliers, they are both great. The grips on the icons have held up better for me. I get into oil and fuel and it seems to have dried up the rubber on the knipex handles and they have started to split and come apart. Not a deal breaker for me though.
I find the Knipex 300's a bit heavy/unwieldy for general use, I usually reach for the 180's or the 250's. Was shocked to find the Icon 250's weight is similar to the Knipex 300's Are your Knipex the old design (the ones Icon copied), or the newer optimised/lighter design? I haven't found the handles to be affected by diesel or alcohol, but I wipe them clean every use before putting them back in the box
@@omicrondec yes they are. I've had them for 2 to 3 years. I'm wondering if they changed what they made the handles out of since then. The rubber handles on my newer pliers wrenches seems to be holding up better.
I avoid buying anything CRAFTSMAN because I'm sure I'll be disappointed. SBD has ruined the name. Those Knipex just look outstanding. I will get a set at some point. Thanks Doc
Don’t get me wrong, I like my Knipex tools. But the push button isn’t great. It’s hard to set it to an exact setting. Yes, it can be done obviously, but it often takes two or three times to get it right. I don’t like those plastic handles. I prefer the heavier plastic. I forget what they call that type - the red/blue handles. The craftsman seems fine. I’d have to try it for myself. Everyone has a different opinion as to what feels comfortable.
I bought the icon pliers wrench with a coupon and I'm pretty happy with them. I own two other sizes of actual Knipex as well. However I don't use the larger Pliers Wrenches that often. Definitely worth it with a good coupon though.
Klein just released a pliers wrench as well. Looks just like the Knipex except it has orange plastic dipped handles. Only $30 right now at Lowe’s. They have a 7 inch($25) and a 10 inch
I have the many sets of these, all the ones he listed here and way more. The Hazet versions are the best in my opinion. Top quality fit and finish and extremely durable.
If you haven’t already, check out the pliers wrenches from Capri tools. I haven’t tried those but they look good. I have a 7” pair of Gray tools pliers wrench and I really like them, they have a few different little nuances to them. But my Knipex are still my favorite too.
Got the 1800mm version of this Knipex , and its an very good tool , exepct the push button mechanism , wich stucks sometimes . Imo , the only pliers who can see this Knipex "in the eyes" are the Hazet ones (with a much smoother working puch button ) or the bahco , both made by Irega in Spain. But thats the big difference between Knipex and all the others .When you buy a Knipex you know that everything (Steel , plastik Handles etc) comes from Germany and is made in Germany (in Wuppertal) , and its not just an outsourced Produkt .
Would be interested on your take better the Gray tools and the Knipex. I have a 180 Gray tools and a 250 Knipex. Both made in Germany. The 180 is sized appropriately for what I do, so the Gray is used more. Really like it and seems as good as my other Knipex tools.
Knipex tools are made just right. For example, what comes to mind is my carhartt padded vest, its just good, year after year. Or, goruck backpack, it caryes on, no mater what loadout or "mission". You feel some kind of connection to stuff that is made to be used and abused. Knipex "essences" is that it was made for you to use. Not just to make money or fill the shelves.
like with any other product, I think that feeling it's due to refinement and decades of development, and that is what we pay for and it doesn't even cost much more
For me the best remains the Knipex. The Craftsman has the adjustment teeth on one side and not central, so during its use it is exposed to accidental impacts that can compromise its functionality and smoothness.
I was standing at Lowe’s holding a V-series tool and had the wildest thought. Since it’s a clearance warranty will be difficult, I was thinking should I get the craftsman because it’s cheaper or the ICON because the warranty is better?
The Knipex feels cheap compared to the better european brands. Try a Stahlwille / VBW (they are the OEM and 100% owned by Stahlwille). Just so much smoother and more precise when adjusting. The polished slides make all the difference.
Stahlwille are 2x the price on amazon, it's already a fairly expensive tool at Knipex pricing Just stick with the Knipex as value for money and avoid the cheap copies
People have to realize that metal strength is a balance. some manufacturers use an alloy thats not as strong to avoid brittleness but utilize more material to compensate than their competitors. You also have on the opposite spectrum companies using alloys that appear tough as hell in strength but are on that limit threshold of failure. I think a channel that does an NDT on the material would be beneficial to the consumer but i believe its a matter of multiple things such as budget, task the tool will be preforming and at which profession level it will be used that determine how much a person is willing to spend.
I think your feeling a quality forging from knipex. As much steel as you need for the job, high quality, and no excess. Perfection is knowing when to stop removing.
Knipex is king always and forever. BUT if you were looking for a good knockoff version they the Kobalt ones from Loves. Very very similar to the Knipex, I prefer them over the Icon ones hands down. But I still love my Knipex way way better.
The Mac ones are just Knipex rebranded, even have "knipex" in the casting? The Kleins look gimicky, the reversible jaw would get in the way and won't grab round stock properly due to the flat side The Knipex ones are excellent. They're not cheap, they are not flashy, but they are value for money; you get what you pay for The Craftsman branded Facom were a steal at USD12 on clearance! Haven't had them in hand VBW/Stahlwille are too expensive even if they are nice, Gedore more expensive than Knipex for similar product
@@scod3908 @scod3908 klein tools tools has released a new line if plumbing tools, they now make a plier wrench other than the reversible jaw version. I haven't tried them but I did see a review on Morgan's Maintenance channel. Personally I'll stick with what works, I haveall varying types of Knipex pliers and never had any issues with them. I especially love the 40 degree bent needle nose pliers, I just picked up the 8 inch one last week and found them suoer useful.
The price difference between the Knipex and the knockoffs is too small to cheap out. It's a buy once cry once kind of thing. I have never been upset for buying a tool that was high quality.
I only have the Icon so far, but I've used them fairly regularly and found them to work well. I don't care if they "look like" another tool as long as they do what they're supposed to. I do like that Icon use chrome-moly steel in all their pliers. I'm sure every now and then there's a pair that aren't hardened correctly, but all the ones I've bought so far seem to be just fine. It's a good idea to keep a little oil on the button and the tension piece on the back to keep the rust away. But I usually keep oil on all my pliers moving parts and potential rust spots anyway.
I have no need for that sort of plier. Nevertheless, the question I have is whether or not the performance of a $70 Knipex, if that can actually be measured and in reality is very subjective, is that far better than the $40 Icon. I'll defer to the wisdom and experience of the Master Plumbers to chime in.
I’m genuinely disgusted by much those other brands copied the knipex design. It’s like their engineers sat there with their coffee, just taking measurements and then sent them off to their manufacturers. And then slapped on their own logo, what a joke. I’ll stick with knipex.
You pick up a cheap PliersWrench clone and it rattles. The fit and finish of the forging and machining of the components of German tools is something that a 'built to budget' Chinese (and even cheaper Taiwanese) tool can never match. That is why my proper work tool case is heavily populated by Knipex, Wiha, Felo etc., bought over 30 years. I have 4 sizes of PliersWrench: The 250mm does everything, the 150mm & 125mm are better than the 'proper' bike tool (from well-known brands of bike tool, 2 of which start with 'P') at what I often put them to: straightening brake discs, & holding aero spokes straight whilst you're truing a wheel, respectively. The 100mm sits next to my Leatherman in my bag for emergency use. There's a 'house tool' bucket that others use is full of cheaper tools that careless people can use for occasional jobs. That I then spend hours scrubbing rust off and lubricating . . . sigh.
would be nice to know where they are being made? I would rather not give any money to china if I can't get made in USA I'd rather pick a country that is not trying to destroy us.
I feel like you just made the video for content. Feels like complaining just to complaint. The craftsman are great pliers made by facom/usag. For a season youtuber, you should know what an actual ground up design looks like vs a knock off. The facom/craftsman has two better features one being the quick adjustment, a reason why the switch is light. The other is the larger opening. Knpx does have a better design, but they have been updating it consistently over time. What did craftsman have under a pliers wrench? The closest thing was the robogrip, atrocious pliers. I say use the tool often, then review it. This unboxing reviews are getting out of hand. Overall the v line is good, has some stinkers(ratchets). They need to adjust pricing and fix the known complaints.
@@nachoisme everyone is entitled to their opinions. Yeah if you feel that way for sure. But I look at complete reviews with actual usage overtime. Not unboxing packages as reviews. Also I don't produce content so comment can't be for "content". Complaining for sure 😊.
well of course you would get the original knipex instead of the inferior knockoffs that are clearly worse also helping to support german economy during its times of need knipex being one of a few successful genuine german business while the other brands need to basically make other products a variety of different tools that does not compete with knipex in this way we can overall have more variety high quality tools and from a variety of reputable high quality western brand but theres this obsession or continued belief to checkout these because they are obviously clones, and obviously the prices so the false belief that higher prices clones isnt ripping you off just because other recognizable brands, but theyre all inferior same for certain other knipex tools their other successful ones just so clear at this point having seen so many of them by now
I was just showing the Knipex Cobra and Plier Wrench to a friend at work. You’re exactly right, the shape that Knipex puts into the handle is nearly perfect. Even the spot on the handle where my ring finger goes to open the jaws when holding it is perfectly positioned. Subtle things like that are what set the Knipex apart from the competition.
Knipex doesn't have to answer to share holders because they're still family owned, and they have a mind set of "how can we make this better" over "how can we make this cheaper".
In a factory tour of their main location in Wuppertal, one of the things said there was that if you have ideas, just say them, even if they're bad.
The price is still high, but they use good quality materials and a lot of skilled labour is involved
Knipex is one of those tools that is priced at a point where it just isn't worth compromising on a lower cost copy, IMO. For a pro, they are inexpensive, for a homeowner, they are worth the investment. Pride of ownership and knowing it is a quality product with a great reputation is worth the "premium" price. Plus they innovate versus copy and are good at not only staying in their lane, but defining it.
Knipex is overrated. I’ve been doing plumbing for almost 30 yrs. and there are plenty of pliers that get the job done. I sold my Knipex off on EBay because I couldn’t look at those ugly red and blue handles in my tool bag. Knipex makes ugly looking tools
@@yo3rdtier128 So they're overrated because you don't like the colour of the handles? Are even a plumber?
Those things are so good, I got all the available sizes down to the tinny tiny one. An amazing tool.
The craftsman look identical to an Irwin pair I have, they also have the "speed" function.
I have several sized of the knipex, both plier and cobra.
I am a plumber and use them multiple times a day, 5 days a week. Nothing comes close to the build quality of the knipex.
The imitations that are half the price will serve people well if you use them 6 times a year, that's for sure.
But if you can afford them, there is no substitute for the knipex.
I also noticed that the speed function wasn't mentioned in the video, despite the craftsman looking like it has it.
I like the knowledge best too. But I really like the Lenox version for plumbing (in an institutional setting). The Lenox has a huge jaw opening for its size, which means it will fit on more closet spuds.
You just keep making me feel better and better at not picking up more of those clearance items 😂
I had to keep telling myself… you don’t need anymore sockets, you don’t need anymore sockets
After spending time me on the Snap On truck, the V series clearance feels like hitting the lottery. But then reality sets in, the luster wears off and the disappointment rises. There are a ton of clearance deals practically giving away the tools but I’ve started asking myself “would I buy this tool at a garage sale? And the answer is always “no.”
@ there is always the question in my mind, “why are these on clearance”.
Sometimes it’s poor marketing or the store just had too many they didn’t sell, but it’s usually because no one wants them.
@@lastbesttoolat 40% off I grabbed a few sets of icon sockets. Good to have so I don’t carry my snap ons w me and lose them. Each set was the price if I replaced one socket off the truck. I got a couple extra sets of semi deep for $22. They are the ones I usuallly grab first. Wish they had them in 1/4 too
@@MORGANSMaintenance they were too expensive, no availability and no marketing. The majority of the line is good quality. If you like tekton, gear wrench, icon, or any of the mid tier brands you will like them. Not sure why @lastbesttool is expecting snap-on quality for mid tier brands. Even I don't expect snap-on quality from snap-on. At work we buy(contracted) multiple snap-on sets every year. We are talking million dollar contracts. The quality doesn't reflect the price. The price is so cheap of the V, does it really matter? Some people are paying even lower prices 😂.
@@MORGANSMaintenanceI still think I might pick up the V Series 1/2” socket set. For 20 bucks it’s good to have bigger size sockets like 1-1/16”, 1-1/4” etc. I can’t even buy one socket of those sizes for 20 bucks lol
The icons have been great and have proven their worth in my work. They’re a solid go to if I need a big size without having to grab the 20lbs bag of wrenches. I’d recommend them to anyone on the fence thinking about trying these wrenches.
Craftsman is Facom PWF250G (made in France), also sold under the name of Usag.
The Knipex have gone through a few design iterations... IIRC, the early versions were heavier.
I have 2 pair of the 250mm... exceedingly useful/versatile at times! Then recently got a third pair for a song, and dedicated them to the car trunk emergency bag.
Even those lowly Craftsman's would fill the emergency bag roll well... plus no big tears should they ever 'loose' you. :)
The Icon is a rip off of the old knipex design. The Icon 250 is similar weight to the Knipex 300, which is not ideal
Others just dont feel the same as the knipex... it is unexplainable but its true
I have them and have only used them a couple times in the last 10 years. I never got rid of them because I did feel like they had a use. I don’t think I have used them since I got the parrot style ones
Happy Thanksgiving Doc
I can feel it too with my knipex - every pair I have is a zero-regret purchase
if you can afford the knipex, they're definitely worth it ... if you can't afford them, wait and save up until you can - it's worth saving for - future you will thank you
Hello again, Doc
Happy Tuesday to you and your family. I have a pair of knipex Alligator pliers. I have found them to be awkward to use. Once you get them where you need them it's game on! The gripping of pliers is great. Again thank you 👌
Got knipex and i use it for plumbing, only issue i have is adjustability. When i use cobras i adjust once and generally it fits the fastener, the margin is much higher compared to plier wrench, when i use them i generaly have to adjust 2-3 times to find perfect spot. Other than that its great. I kind od hope they fix it in future iterations, maybe add more teeth:)
I don't really get what aiding more teeth would do. The movement in the head when adjusted is a smaller margin than the Cobras, since the jaws move parallel. That also means that the jaws don't close "around" the piece that you want to grab and rely on surface to surface contact rather than the profile catching.
But there is still enough play that makes up for one or two teeth.
It's a more precise tool that also needs to be adjusted more precisely. I don't think adding more teeth would help.
Go get the kleins. They have an extended button to make the adjustment want easier. I have the icons, and doing DIY plumbing can be a nightmare with them when you're under a sink and only have 1 hand on them. The problem is klein didn't bring the extended button to the smaller ones.
Maybe, i dont really know but plier wrench tend to have a Perfect spot on a fastener. It grabs tight and handles arent spread too wide. Just one click tighter and it still grabs but handles are too much spread apart and its not comfortable. Maybe adding few more teeth would add some more place for error, or maybe its just geometry od the tool? Idk, once you set it right its a great tool
@littlejack59 How would an extended button help with adjustment increments?
That is because the pliers wrench has much more leverage. So when you close them the corbas close faster for every movement of the handles.
So it's a compromise between clamping force and adjustability.
The V-series clearance is worth a serious look. I purchased both the SAE and Metric 8-Piece Sets of Ratcheting Wrenches for $30 (usually $85). 70 teeth, reversible, 5 degree arc, reasonable backdrag,... VERY pleased with my purchase.
Its not a clearance. Craftsman have stated that it's a holiday sale promotion for this year. Theory is to compete with Harbor Freight for this holiday season.
I just picked up the same metric 8 piece. Solid set that I keep in the car emergency tool kit. They’re very similar to MAC and Facom versions. They also have the ratchets on sale, unfortunately not the best in terms of back drag and head shape.
I have had a wonderful experience with the V series Craftsman tools.
Cant go wrong with either the icon or knipex pliers, they are both great. The grips on the icons have held up better for me. I get into oil and fuel and it seems to have dried up the rubber on the knipex handles and they have started to split and come apart. Not a deal breaker for me though.
That's interesting. Are those Knipex handles the basic, thin ones?
I find the Knipex 300's a bit heavy/unwieldy for general use, I usually reach for the 180's or the 250's. Was shocked to find the Icon 250's weight is similar to the Knipex 300's
Are your Knipex the old design (the ones Icon copied), or the newer optimised/lighter design? I haven't found the handles to be affected by diesel or alcohol, but I wipe them clean every use before putting them back in the box
@scod3908 yes, they are the older knipex. Now that you mentioned it my newer 180's rubber handles are not breaking apart. Maybe a change in compound?
@@omicrondec yes they are. I've had them for 2 to 3 years. I'm wondering if they changed what they made the handles out of since then. The rubber handles on my newer pliers wrenches seems to be holding up better.
I bought the icon version a month and was surprised that the push button rusted on me.
I avoid buying anything CRAFTSMAN because I'm sure I'll be disappointed. SBD has ruined the name. Those Knipex just look outstanding. I will get a set at some point. Thanks Doc
Klien has one now. Very reasonably priced and not too bad.
Don’t get me wrong, I like my Knipex tools. But the push button isn’t great. It’s hard to set it to an exact setting. Yes, it can be done obviously, but it often takes two or three times to get it right. I don’t like those plastic handles. I prefer the heavier plastic. I forget what they call that type - the red/blue handles. The craftsman seems fine. I’d have to try it for myself. Everyone has a different opinion as to what feels comfortable.
I bought the icon pliers wrench with a coupon and I'm pretty happy with them. I own two other sizes of actual Knipex as well. However I don't use the larger Pliers Wrenches that often. Definitely worth it with a good coupon though.
Klein just released a pliers wrench as well. Looks just like the Knipex except it has orange plastic dipped handles. Only $30 right now at Lowe’s. They have a 7 inch($25) and a 10 inch
Have you checked out the Hazet version of these pliers? They are a little different but also very nice.
I have the many sets of these, all the ones he listed here and way more. The Hazet versions are the best in my opinion. Top quality fit and finish and extremely durable.
If you haven’t already, check out the pliers wrenches from Capri tools. I haven’t tried those but they look good. I have a 7” pair of Gray tools pliers wrench and I really like them, they have a few different little nuances to them. But my Knipex are still my favorite too.
Curious how the new Klein plier wrench compares to these
To make it easier: in the ten inch size- get the knipex offset handle, if it might walk then wait for a coupon get the icon
Got the 1800mm version of this Knipex , and its an very good tool , exepct the push button mechanism , wich stucks sometimes . Imo , the only pliers who can see this Knipex "in the eyes" are the Hazet ones (with a much smoother working puch button ) or the bahco , both made by Irega in Spain. But thats the big difference between Knipex and all the others .When you buy a Knipex you know that everything (Steel , plastik Handles etc) comes from Germany and is made in Germany (in Wuppertal) , and its not just an outsourced Produkt .
Would be interested on your take better the Gray tools and the Knipex. I have a 180 Gray tools and a 250 Knipex. Both made in Germany. The 180 is sized appropriately for what I do, so the Gray is used more. Really like it and seems as good as my other Knipex tools.
Knipex tools are made just right. For example, what comes to mind is my carhartt padded vest, its just good, year after year. Or, goruck backpack, it caryes on, no mater what loadout or "mission". You feel some kind of connection to stuff that is made to be used and abused. Knipex "essences" is that it was made for you to use. Not just to make money or fill the shelves.
like with any other product, I think that feeling it's due to refinement and decades of development, and that is what we pay for and it doesn't even cost much more
Happy Thanksgiving, Doc!
You too!
For me the best remains the Knipex. The Craftsman has the adjustment teeth on one side and not central, so during its use it is exposed to accidental impacts that can compromise its functionality and smoothness.
Some of the best pliers Snap On ever sold were made by Knipex.
I was standing at Lowe’s holding a V-series tool and had the wildest thought. Since it’s a clearance warranty will be difficult, I was thinking should I get the craftsman because it’s cheaper or the ICON because the warranty is better?
@@Henry_Swanson it's not a clearance, well at least according to Stanley B&D. It's a holiday sale, I'm assuming they are revamping the line.
I’m curious about the Klein Tools version
5:07 ... Does the Craftsman need the button to be pressed to close? It looks like you could just close it by putting pressure on the handle.
Kleins new pliers wrench is pretty nice
The Knipex feels cheap compared to the better european brands. Try a Stahlwille / VBW (they are the OEM and 100% owned by Stahlwille). Just so much smoother and more precise when adjusting. The polished slides make all the difference.
The stahlwille looks great, but never used them. Seems a bit less bulky
Stahlwille are 2x the price on amazon, it's already a fairly expensive tool at Knipex pricing
Just stick with the Knipex as value for money and avoid the cheap copies
@ the VBW Version is the same and should be close in price to the Knipex.
@@philipp594 Double what I can get the knipex for online, otherwise I would have tried one
People have to realize that metal strength is a balance. some manufacturers use an alloy thats not as strong to avoid brittleness but utilize more material to compensate than their competitors. You also have on the opposite spectrum companies using alloys that appear tough as hell in strength but are on that limit threshold of failure. I think a channel that does an NDT on the material would be beneficial to the consumer but i believe its a matter of multiple things such as budget, task the tool will be preforming and at which profession level it will be used that determine how much a person is willing to spend.
I think your feeling a quality forging from knipex. As much steel as you need for the job, high quality, and no excess. Perfection is knowing when to stop removing.
Icon is the best for the price
Disappointing about the craftsman version. I have the 7" knipex and they're among my favorite tools to use.
Knipex is king always and forever. BUT if you were looking for a good knockoff version they the Kobalt ones from Loves. Very very similar to the Knipex, I prefer them over the Icon ones hands down. But I still love my Knipex way way better.
Cant wait until he finds the kleins, capri, mac, and 40 other companies that are starting to come out with their own.
The Mac ones are just Knipex rebranded, even have "knipex" in the casting?
The Kleins look gimicky, the reversible jaw would get in the way and won't grab round stock properly due to the flat side
The Knipex ones are excellent. They're not cheap, they are not flashy, but they are value for money; you get what you pay for
The Craftsman branded Facom were a steal at USD12 on clearance! Haven't had them in hand
VBW/Stahlwille are too expensive even if they are nice, Gedore more expensive than Knipex for similar product
@@scod3908 @scod3908 klein tools tools has released a new line if plumbing tools, they now make a plier wrench other than the reversible jaw version. I haven't tried them but I did see a review on Morgan's Maintenance channel. Personally I'll stick with what works, I haveall varying types of Knipex pliers and never had any issues with them. I especially love the 40 degree bent needle nose pliers, I just picked up the 8 inch one last week and found them suoer useful.
@@andrewlacerenza667 interesting, took a few google searches to get it to show up, looks like another cheap copy of the knipex design
@@scod3908good point. Imho only nws can compete with knipex
Do a blind test where you feel them in your hand and maybe use them on a faster. Just to see if its all placebo
It's a perfect example of French vs German vs Chinese design, lol.
The price difference between the Knipex and the knockoffs is too small to cheap out. It's a buy once cry once kind of thing. I have never been upset for buying a tool that was high quality.
The craftsmen is pretty much identical to the Mac version of the plier wrench
I'da bought that for $12 dollars. Can double as a hammer too.
It was KNIPEX after all that invented the plierwrench in 1984.
I have the Knipex and the SK, which is Amazon black Friday $20. Knipex is lighter.
The SK are actually pretty good. I’ve had them for a while and they do the job.
Engineering and ergonomics, engineering and ergonomics 😀
I only have the Icon so far, but I've used them fairly regularly and found them to work well. I don't care if they "look like" another tool as long as they do what they're supposed to. I do like that Icon use chrome-moly steel in all their pliers. I'm sure every now and then there's a pair that aren't hardened correctly, but all the ones I've bought so far seem to be just fine. It's a good idea to keep a little oil on the button and the tension piece on the back to keep the rust away. But I usually keep oil on all my pliers moving parts and potential rust spots anyway.
I have no need for that sort of plier. Nevertheless, the question I have is whether or not the performance of a $70 Knipex, if that can actually be measured and in reality is very subjective, is that far better than the $40 Icon.
I'll defer to the wisdom and experience of the Master Plumbers to chime in.
Knipex are just better. 9 times out of ten.
I don't like copies, I'll go with the Knipex over the Icon.
When the brand (Craftsman in this case) is just printed on or laser etched on the metal - it is junk… never fails.
Here in the 3rd world I can't get neither of those whit out leave a liver on the store...
That "essence" is called ergonomics
Doc complaining about craftsman again do you like any stanley products
I’m genuinely disgusted by much those other brands copied the knipex design. It’s like their engineers sat there with their coffee, just taking measurements and then sent them off to their manufacturers. And then slapped on their own logo, what a joke. I’ll stick with knipex.
It’s competition, and without it knipex would likely raise prices higher.
@ you’re totally right actually, I guess every yin has its yang, huh.
You pick up a cheap PliersWrench clone and it rattles. The fit and finish of the forging and machining of the components of German tools is something that a 'built to budget' Chinese (and even cheaper Taiwanese) tool can never match. That is why my proper work tool case is heavily populated by Knipex, Wiha, Felo etc., bought over 30 years. I have 4 sizes of PliersWrench: The 250mm does everything, the 150mm & 125mm are better than the 'proper' bike tool (from well-known brands of bike tool, 2 of which start with 'P') at what I often put them to: straightening brake discs, & holding aero spokes straight whilst you're truing a wheel, respectively. The 100mm sits next to my Leatherman in my bag for emergency use.
There's a 'house tool' bucket that others use is full of cheaper tools that careless people can use for occasional jobs. That I then spend hours scrubbing rust off and lubricating . . . sigh.
What you feel is German QUALITY.
...❤👍
Craftsman got me for about $500 during their vseries sale and i don't even like Craftsman.
would be nice to know where they are being made? I would rather not give any money to china if I can't get made in USA I'd rather pick a country that is not trying to destroy us.
I feel like you just made the video for content. Feels like complaining just to complaint. The craftsman are great pliers made by facom/usag. For a season youtuber, you should know what an actual ground up design looks like vs a knock off. The facom/craftsman has two better features one being the quick adjustment, a reason why the switch is light. The other is the larger opening. Knpx does have a better design, but they have been updating it consistently over time. What did craftsman have under a pliers wrench? The closest thing was the robogrip, atrocious pliers. I say use the tool often, then review it. This unboxing reviews are getting out of hand. Overall the v line is good, has some stinkers(ratchets). They need to adjust pricing and fix the known complaints.
Honestly that's what most of the videos on the channel feel like lately
Just go somewhere else. You both sound like content snobs. Stop complaining.
I feel like you made this comment for content. Feels like complaining just to complaint.
@@nachoisme everyone is entitled to their opinions. Yeah if you feel that way for sure. But I look at complete reviews with actual usage overtime. Not unboxing packages as reviews. Also I don't produce content so comment can't be for "content". Complaining for sure 😊.
@@andrestnt where is your content?
well of course you would get the original knipex
instead of the inferior knockoffs that are clearly worse
also helping to support german economy during its times of need
knipex being one of a few successful genuine german business
while the other brands need to basically make other products
a variety of different tools that does not compete with knipex
in this way we can overall have more variety high quality tools
and from a variety of reputable high quality western brand
but theres this obsession or continued belief to checkout these
because they are obviously clones, and obviously the prices
so the false belief that higher prices clones isnt ripping you off
just because other recognizable brands, but theyre all inferior
same for certain other knipex tools their other successful ones
just so clear at this point having seen so many of them by now
I can't support a brand doing direct ripoffs, that's not cool.
You should be blinded to subjective things like "feel". It's meaningless if you are biased into thinking knipex is higher quality